Setting up a company in the Dubai South Business Hub (DSBH) is simple, digital, and fast. All it takes is five simple steps to secure your trade license and company formation documents – and in less than two hours.
Entrepreneurs benefit from 100% foreign ownership, flexible licenses, visa quotas of up to six, full capital repatriation, and a digitally-enabled support ecosystem. Add to that adaptable workspace solutions designed for startups and SMEs, and it’s easy to see why Dubai South Business Hub has become the go-to choice for founders.
According to a recent report from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM), the UAE is recognized as the world’s number one destination for entrepreneurship. Now’s the best time to start your business in Dubai.
This guide takes you step-by-step through setting up a business with Dubai South Business Hub, breaks down the costs, license types, and the documents you’ll need – we’ll also answer your frequently asked questions. And, by the end, you’ll learn just why working with Creative Zone makes the process even smoother.
Dubai South Business Hub company setup: Step-by-step
Setting up a company at Dubai South Business Hub is straightforward. It involves choosing your business setup and structure, applying and paying online, ID verification, receiving your license and other paperwork, applying for visas, and opening a corporate bank account – all within Dubai South Business Hub’s online ecosystem.
Step 1: Build the right foundation
Every business setup process starts by defining your business activity. Dubai South Business Hub offers hundreds of options across consulting, digital services, e-commerce, and trading. Once you’ve chosen your activity, select your legal structure (usually a limited liability company), and reserve a company name through the portal. This first step establishes the legal framework of your company.
Creative Zone’s business setup specialists are on hand to offer advice and guidance throughout this process – and beyond.
Step 2: Apply and pay online
Upload your documents and complete your trade license application through the portal. Payments are also made online, eliminating paperwork and saving time.
Step 3: ID verification
Identity checks are also carried out digitally. You’ll be asked to submit a copy of your passport, proof of residence, and a passport-sized photo.
Step 4: Receive your license and company formation documents
Once your application is approved, Dubai South Business Hub issues your business license and company formation papers – in as little as two hours.
Step 5: Complete optional steps
Depending on your needs, you may then:
- Apply for your visa quota and issue visas for yourself, employees, and dependents.
- Secure a workspace – choose from flexible options.
- Open a corporate bank account.
- Register for VAT or corporate tax if applicable.
All this is handled inside Dubai South Business Hub’s ecosystem, with partnerships in place for visas, banking, accounting, and compliance.
Benefits of setting up in Dubai South Business Hub
The advantages of setting up in Dubai South Business Hub include its strategic location, fast digital process, full foreign ownership rights, visa quota, and built-in value-added services.
Strategic location
Dubai South Business Hub is located next to Al Maktoum International Airport and close to Jebel Ali Port, offering unmatched connectivity for businesses that want global reach.
Fast, digital process
The entire process is online – from application to ID verification. With approvals completed digitally, licenses can be issued in just a few hours.
100% foreign ownership
Dubai South Business Hub allows full foreign ownership, giving international entrepreneurs complete control of their company without needing a local sponsor or partner.
Flexible workspace solutions
Unlike purely virtual setups, Dubai South Business Hub offers adaptable workspace options that grow with your business. Whether you need a flexi desk to start, a co-working environment, or a private office for a larger team, there are scalable packages available. This flexibility is ideal for startups that want cost control and SMEs ready to expand.
Visa allocation
Each license comes with a visa quota, with many standard packages allowing up to six visas. This makes it easy to bring in staff, partners, and family members under your business setup.
Value-added support
Through its Beyond Hub platform, Dubai South Business Hub provides banking introductions, VAT and corporate tax registration, accounting, compliance, and Emirates ID services – a complete ecosystem to keep your business running smoothly.
Cost of company setup in Dubai South Business Hub
The entry-level Dubai South Business Hub license packages start from AED 12,500 per year. This fee covers your business license and the essentials of company registration.
Here’s what else you should budget for:
- Visa costs: Each visa comes with government processing fees, Emirates ID charges, and medical testing costs.
- Establishment card: Required for visa allocation and immigration processes.
- Compliance costs: Depending on your business, you may need to register for VAT or corporate tax. Accounting services are also recommended.
- Bank account setup: Free, but you may want PRO assistance to streamline approvals.
- Workspace: flexible packages are available, so you can scale costs as you grow.
In total, most businesses should budget AED 15,000 to AED 25,000 in the first year, depending on license type, visas, and workspace needs.
Types of licenses available in Dubai South Business Hub
Dubai South Business Hub offers three main license categories, tailored for different business models: trade license, e-commerce license, and service/business license.
1. Trade license
This covers import, export, and trading of goods. Ideal for companies engaged in general trading or specific product categories.
2. E-commerce license
It allows you to sell goods and services online without needing a physical shop. A strong option for online retailers, digital sellers, and entrepreneurs running remote businesses.
3. Service/business license
This is perfect for consultancies, project management firms, creative agencies, and other professional service providers.
Documents required for Dubai South company setup
You’ll need to prepare the following documents:
- Valid passport copies of all shareholders and directors
- Passport-size photos
- Proof of residential address
- Business activity description
- Contact details
- Workspace agreement (depending on your choice)
- For visas: Emirates ID, entry permit, and medical check documentation
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start a company in Dubai South Business Hub?
It starts at around AED 12,500 for a basic license, but expect total costs of AED 15,000 to AED 25,000 once you factor in visas and other requirements.
Can foreigners own 100% of a company in Dubai South Business Hub?
Yes. Dubai South Business Hub permits full foreign ownership without the need for a UAE national partner.
What are the visa options for Dubai South Business Hub companies?
Visa quotas depend on your license type and workspace. Standard packages usually allow up to six visas, while basic licenses may have fewer.
Is Dubai South Business Hub good for startups?
Yes. With fast setup, affordable entry costs, digital processes, and flexible packages, Dubai South Business Hub is an excellent option for startups, freelancers, and SMEs.
Why choose Creative Zone for your Dubai South company setup
Setting up at Dubai South Business Hub is fast – but that doesn’t mean it’s simple. From choosing the right license to handling visas, compliance, and tax, there are details that can trip up even experienced entrepreneurs.
That’s where Creative Zone comes in.
- Expert guidance: We know exactly which business activities are permitted and which aren’t, ensuring your application goes through smoothly.
- End-to-end support: From documentation to visa processing, Emirates ID, and banking introductions, we take care of the details.
- Strategic advice: Beyond setup, we help you plan for VAT, corporate tax, and long-term compliance.
- Tailored packages: Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or a growing SME, we recommend the most cost-effective structure.
- Proven track record: With over 15 years in the UAE, thousands of companies have trusted us to make their setup seamless.
With us, you’re not just getting a license – you’re getting a partner invested in your business success. Contact Creative Zone today.
